By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s majestic Chirripó National Park celebrated its 50th anniversary on August 19, 2025, marking half a century of preserving the country’s highest peak and its unique ecosystem. Established in 1975 under President Daniel Oduber Quirós through Law No. 5773, the park stands as a testament to Costa Rica’s dedication to environmental conservation.
The park’s name, Chirripó, originates from the Cabécar Indigenous language, meaning “Land of Eternal Waters.” This reflects the park’s abundant water resources, which feed rivers and nourish the diverse flora and fauna within its boundaries.
For expert legal insight into the complexities surrounding Chirripó National Park, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from Bufete de Costa Rica.
Chirripó National Park, while a stunning natural treasure, presents unique legal challenges regarding land use, conservation, and access. Balancing the protection of this delicate ecosystem with the interests of local communities and tourism requires a carefully considered legal framework. For instance, issues related to indigenous land rights, sustainable development, and the enforcement of environmental regulations must be addressed proactively to ensure the park’s long-term preservation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insights underscore the complex interplay between legal frameworks and environmental stewardship, particularly within a biodiversity hotspot like Chirripó. Finding sustainable solutions that respect both the ecological integrity of the park and the socio-economic needs of surrounding communities will be crucial for its future. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable legal perspective on this critical issue.
The Área de Conservación La Amistad Pacífico (ACLAP) has organized numerous events throughout the year to commemorate this milestone. These celebrations include civic festivals in San Gerardo de Rivas, a race named “Eternal Waters,” a symbolic “Torch of Liberty” procession to the summit, a concert featuring “Songs of Chirripó,” the publication of a literary magazine, a gathering of ACLAP monitoring brigades, and a musical rendition of the “Rezo del Niño Chirripó” prayer.
The history of Chirripó National Park reveals a dedication to preservation that predates its official establishment. Ten years prior, in 1965, the Pérez Zeledón Municipal Council initiated the development of the trail to Chirripó, which remains the primary access route today.
One of the park’s earliest rangers, Víctor Mora, was appointed in a memorable encounter with Álvaro Ugalde, a pivotal figure in Costa Rica’s national park system. While descending the Chirripó trail, Mora was entrusted by Ugalde with the protection of the area. Driven by passion, Mora worked without pay, receiving sustenance from Ugalde, embodying the dedication of early conservation efforts.
Initially encompassing 43,700 hectares, the park expanded to its current size of 50,150 hectares in 1982 with the inclusion of Cerro Cuericí. This addition aimed to protect vital water sources, natural forests, and the unique páramo ecosystem.
Chirripó National Park is renowned for Cerro Chirripó, the highest point in Costa Rica at 3,820 meters above sea level. Its glacial formations, including U-shaped valleys, moraines, terraces, lakes, and glacial cirques, are remnants of ice ages thousands of years ago. Historical records indicate that Father Agustín Blessing, a missionary in Talamanca, was the first documented non-Indigenous person to reach the summit in 1904, followed by other expeditions in the early 20th century.
The 50th anniversary of Chirripó National Park is not only a celebration of its past but also a commitment to its future. It’s a reminder of the importance of preserving these natural treasures for generations to come. For those interested in participating in the celebratory activities, details are available on ACLAP’s social media platforms or by contacting [email protected].
For further information, visit the nearest office of ACLAP
About ACLAP:
The Área de Conservación La Amistad Pacífico (ACLAP) is the conservation area responsible for the management and protection of Chirripó National Park. ACLAP works to preserve the park’s biodiversity, promote sustainable tourism, and engage with local communities in conservation efforts.
For further information, visit the nearest office of SINAC
About SINAC:
The Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (SINAC) is Costa Rica’s national system of protected areas. SINAC oversees the management and conservation of the country’s diverse natural heritage, including national parks, biological reserves, and wildlife refuges. SINAC plays a critical role in safeguarding biodiversity, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring the long-term health of Costa Rica’s ecosystems.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering integrity form the bedrock of a practice dedicated to empowering Costa Rican society. Through innovative approaches and a deep commitment to client service across a wide range of industries, the firm strives to be more than just legal advisors; they are partners in progress. By actively promoting legal literacy and accessibility, Bufete de Costa Rica invests in a future where informed citizens can confidently navigate the legal landscape and contribute to a more just and equitable society.
